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An official Harlow Council statement, said: "The ditch is to protect the surrounding homes and area from surface water flooding.

"It is essential flooding prevention works that is being funded by Essex County Council. The boundaries of nearby homes will not change, it is simply reinstating a ditch which was in the area before the homes were built in the 1970s.

"The ditch connects to a local pond and will store water during heavy rainfall helping to prevent local homes from flooding. At the same time we are also carrying out other improvements to the local environment to encourage and benefit the local wildlife.

Ken Garbutt is concerned that children may want to climb over the wood and pipes

"This includes cutting the trees and hedgerow which will regrow thicker andbushier. New fencing has also been put up near the pond and more fencing will be put up around the pond in the next couple of weeks.